Ms Živa Frangež

Biography

My name is Živa Frangež, I come from Slovenia. I obtained a master’s degree in pharmacy from the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana. The aim of my research work for master’s thesis was to contribute to a better understanding of the complex role of autophagy in cancer and to analyse which autophagy-related proteins might play a role in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Currently, I am working at the Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern. Here I am focusing on the role of epigenetic regulation of autophagy on melanoma progression and metastasis.

Why are you doing a PhD?

I would like to pursue a career in research, particularly in cancer research, and I believe that PhD is a good starting point on this path. Moreover, PhD gives me the opportunity to meet new people from all around the world who share similar interests and experiences. It provides the chance to collaborate with researchers from same area, to learn from them and, finally, to contribute to the common goal.

Other interests?

Outside of the lab I enjoy spending time with my friends, listening to music and travelling. I love meeting new people, learning about their cultures and making new friends. I am also a sports person; I like to ski, play tennis and have an immense passion for show jumping with horses.